Symptoms of concussion 

When thinking about symptoms of concussion, it is helpful to divide them into two categories – symptoms reported by the injured person, and those observed by parents, teammates, or coaches. Importantly, the injured person is often not aware of the symptoms that others can see. In addition, while symptoms usually show up immediately, sometimes they can take a few hours or days to fully appear and develop.

Reported symptoms

  • Headache or feeling of pressure in the head 

  • Nausea or vomiting 

  • Dizziness or trouble keeping your balance 

  • Double or blurry vision 

  • Sensitivity to light or noise 

  • Feeling slowed down 

  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating or remembering things 

Observed symptoms

  • Can’t recall events just before or after the incident 

  • Appears dazed or stunned 

  • Appears confused or forgetful 

  • Moves clumsily 

  • Responds slowly to questions 

  • Gets knocked out or loses consciousness 

  • Mood, behavior, or personality changes 

Remember, if you or your child experience any of the following RED FLAG symptoms, call your doctor or go to the emergency department IMMEDIATELY. 

  • Headache that gets worse over time 

  • Seizure 

  • Slurred or “drunken” speech 

  • Increasing confusion 

  • Repeated vomiting 

  • Unequal pupils 

  • Can’t recognize people or places 

  • Looks very drowsy, or can’t be awakened 

  • Weakness or numbness in arms or legs 

  • Unusual behavior 

  • Increasing irritability 

  • Loses consciousness 

It is important to note that the symptoms of concussion are generally the same for children and adults. However, very young children may not be able to report a symptom the same way an older child can.